Fr. Harry Byrne

Harry Michael Byrne was born in Chicago, IL, on November 19, 1941, to Harry Byrne and Monica Johnston. He was baptized at St. Bartholomew in Chicago and attended McHenry Community High School in McHenry, IL.

Harry first entered the Dominican Order in 1962, studying at Loras College in Dubuque, IA, before departing in 1964. He re-entered the Order from 1966 to 1968 and earned his bachelor’s degree from Aquinas Institute in River Forest, IL. Afterward, he moved to Florida, where he taught theology and psychology in Tampa and Miami and earned a master’s degree in guidance from the University of South Florida in 1972.

He entered the Dominican Order for the final time in 1974. He professed solemn vows on October 11, 1977, and was ordained to the priesthood on April 8, 1978. Fr. Harry received an M.A. in Theology and Master of Divinity from Aquinas Institute of Theology in Dubuque, IA, and a 1986 Doctor of Ministry from Eden Theological Seminary in Webster Groves, MO.

Following his ordination, Fr. Harry taught at Fenwick High School in Oak Park, IL, and served as Vocations Promoter for the Dominicans. In 1984, Fr. Harry was assigned to Aquinas Institute of Theology (located in St. Louis since 1981), where he served as Assistant Professor of Pastoral Theology until 2011. During this time, he served as the superior of his community many times. He directed the formation of young friars during their time of studies. He continued limited work at Aquinas Institute until he retired to St. Pius Priory in Chicago, IL, in the summer of 2024. After protracted health issues, he passed away on August 2.

Fr. Harry was recognized as an excellent spiritual director and professor. He had dozens of directees over the years, Dominican friars, sisters, and lay men and women. He was instrumental in developing the Certificate in Spiritual Direction at Aquinas Institute.

Fr. Harry was deeply caring and communal. He never missed a birthday or an anniversary and kept a list of people he prayed for regularly. He shared poems with brothers and friends. Until his passing, he was part of a virtual club that discussed short stories. Harry was quiet, constant, and dependable. Above all, he was a brother and a friend.

His funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, August 16, at 11:00 AM at St. Vincent Ferrer Parish, 1530 Jackson Ave, River Forest, IL, preceded by Office of the Dead at 10:00 AM-Interment at All Saints Cemetery. Memorial Donations to the Dominican Friars, 1910 S. Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL, 60608-2904, www.opcentral.org, are greatly appreciated.